Childhood Sexual Abuse

May 31, 2018

Just recently I heard a litany of statistics that followed the ugly fact that one in four girls and one in six boys in the U.S. will be sexually abused by the time they reach 18. This happens inside and outside the church. Another speaker who shared her story without shame began with stating that sexual abuse is the only crime where the victim is shamed. Shame and powerlessness are intricately interwoven. I tried to stay focused, but two lectures were enough for me for that weekend.

What people, especially victims of sexual abuse need to hear is the road to healing. Dan Allender’s book and workbook, The Wounded Heart , is a most thorough, unflinching, poignant exercise in deconstructing the complexities of the effects of sexual abuse and finding a way back to wholeness. Perhaps a self-study will eventually lead to allowing someone close to you, a safe person such as a counselor, into the conversation. Wings Foundation – https://www.wingsfound.org/ – here in Denver on Lowry is an organization that holds therapeutic groups for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and loved ones.

There is hope for recovery – I have seen restored lives!

Yes there is a danger of false memories, but what you remember, is what you remember. That is the place to start. To grieve and to move forward with what God has to offer in terms of love and protection takes faith based on His Word – Jesus, the Word made flesh, and the Bible. The Lord does not nullify the will of the offender, but He could have intervened. I don’t believe there are any pat answers as to why He allowed this evil to enter your life, but I know that He can work all things for your good as you boldly approach His throne to receive mercy and grace in your time of need. May He strengthen and empower you as you draw near to Him, so that you may receive the truth that He is for you and He is with you.